A nurse is caring for a client who has throat cancer and is receiving radiation therapy. The client reports nausea, stomatitis, and weight loss. Which of the following dietary interventions should the nurse recommend?
Increase intake of liquids at mealtime.
Serve foods hot.
Consume foods high in fat content.
Select foods high in protein.
The Correct Answer is D
Throat cancer and radiation therapy can cause various side effects, including nausea, stomatitis (inflammation of the mouth), and weight loss. In this situation, it is important to focus on nutritional support and addressing the client's symptoms.
Selecting foods high in protein is recommended for this client. Protein is essential for tissue repair and maintaining muscle mass, which is crucial for recovery and preventing further weight loss. Foods high in protein include lean meats, poultry, fish, dairy products, eggs, legumes, and tofu. The nurse can work with a registered dietitian to develop a meal plan that incorporates protein-rich foods while considering the client's preferences and any specific dietary restrictions.
Regarding the other options:
● Increase intake of liquids at mealtime: While it is important for the client to maintain hydration, increasing liquid intake at mealtime may contribute to a feeling of fullness and exacerbate nausea. It is generally recommended to consume liquids between meals rather than with meals.
● Serve foods hot: Serving foods hot may not directly address the client's symptoms. The temperature of the food is unlikely to alleviate nausea, stomatitis, or weight loss.
● Consume foods high in fat content: Foods high in fat content may be difficult to tolerate for a client experiencing nausea and stomatitis. Additionally, focusing on increasing protein intake is generally a higher priority than increasing fat intake for a client experiencing weight loss
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Recommend that the client eliminate the intake of carbonated beverages: Carbonated beverages, such as soda or sparkling water, can exacerbate diarrhea symptoms by increasing gas production and potentially causing abdominal discomfort. Eliminating carbonated beverages can help alleviate symptoms and improve the client's condition.
Instruct the client to increase consumption of beans: While beans are a good source of dietary fiber and can promote regular bowel movements in some individuals, they can also worsen diarrhea in others. Since the client is experiencing chronic diarrhea, increasing consumption of beans may not be advisable as it could contribute to loose stools and increased frequency.
Provide sugar-free candy for the client between meals: Sugar-free candies often contain artificial sweeteners like sorbitol or mannitol, which can have a laxative effect and worsen diarrhea. Offering sugar-free candy may not be helpful and can potentially exacerbate the client's symptoms.
Encourage the client to drink 4 oz of milk after each loose stool: Drinking milk after each loose stool is not recommended for clients experiencing chronic diarrhea. Milk contains lactose, and some individuals may have difficulty digesting it, leading to increased gas production and loose stools. Assessing the client's tolerance to milk and considering lactose-free alternatives, if needed, would be more appropriate.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
"I should limit the amount of fiber in my diet": This statement demonstrates an understanding of the teaching. In Crohn's disease, certain types of fiber can be difficult to digest and may worsen symptoms such as abdominal pain, diarrhea, and bowel obstruction. Therefore, it is often recommended to limit the intake of high-fiber foods during active disease flares.
"I will need to take mild laxatives to help me have a bowel movement": Taking laxatives is not typically recommended for individuals with Crohn's disease unless specifically prescribed by a healthcare provider. Laxatives can further irritate the intestines and potentially worsen symptoms. Therefore, this statement does not demonstrate an understanding of the teaching.
"I am likely to gain weight due to this disease": Weight loss is a more common occurrence in individuals with Crohn's disease due to factors such as decreased appetite, malabsorption, and increased metabolism. Weight gain is not typically associated with the disease, so this statement does not indicate an understanding of the teaching.
"Avoiding glutamine will help me recover from this disease": Glutamine is an amino acid that plays a role in gut health and repair. It is often considered beneficial for individuals with Crohn's disease as it supports intestinal healing. Therefore, avoiding glutamine would not be recommended for recovery from the disease. This statement does not indicate an understanding of the teaching.
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